,SENIOR

IABBATH SCHOOL LESSON

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No. 220, SECOND QUARTER, 1950

CHRISTIAN STEWARDSHIP

ITS RESPONSIBILITIES AND BLESSINGS

THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING, JUNE 24, 1950, SOUTHERN AFRICAN DIVISION

INDIVIDUAL SABBATH SCHOOL OFFERING GOAL

"As God hath prospered him"

MY WEEKLY GOAL (Check Amount)

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"God loveth a cheerful giver"

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DAILY LESSON STUDY PLEDGE

As one who greatly desires to improve his knowledge of the Scriptures,

pledge

myself to the careful and prayerful study of some portion of my Sabbath school lesson

each day of the week.'

Name

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Place a check mark in each space below for the days you have studied

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STUDY RECORD

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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

10 11

12 13

1ST DAY

S STUDY

2D DAY

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3D DAY

S STUDY

4TH DAY'S STUDY

5TH DAY'S STUDY

6TH DAY

S STUDY

7TH DAY

S STUDY

"Let the Sabbath school lesson be learned, not by a hasty glance at the lesson scrip-

ture on Sabbath morning, but by careful study for the next week on Sabbath afternoon,

with daily review or illustration during the week. Thus the lesson will become fixed in

the memory, a treasure never to be wholly lost."—"Education," pages 251, 252.

Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, No. 220, April-June, 1950. 10 cents a single

copy, 35 cents a year, in . S. A.; 12 cents a single copy, 45 cents a year, in Can•

ada and foreign countries. Published in the U. S. A. by Pacific Press Publishing Asso-

ciation (a corporation of S. D. A.), Mountain View, California. Entered as second-

class matter Oct. 13, 1904, at the post office in Mountain View, California, under the

Act of Congress of March 3, 1879. Acceptance for mailing at special rate of postage

provided for in Section 1103, Act of Oct. 3, 1917, and authorized Sept. 18, 1918.

1950, by Pacific Press Publishing Association.

Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly

CHRISTIAN STEWARDSHIP—

ITS RESPONSIBILITIES AND BLESSINGS

Lesson 1, for April 1, 1950

The Creator and Upholder of All

MEMORY VERSE: "In the beginning was the Word,' and the Word was with

God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things

were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made that was made." John

1:1-3.

STUDY HELP: S. A. Wellman, "Your Stewardship and Mine," chapter 1.

INTRODUCTORY NOTE: "The works of creation testify of God's poWer and

greatness. 'The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament showeth His

handiwork.' Those who take the written word as their counselor will find in science

an aid to understand God. 'The invisible things of Him from the creation of the

world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal

power and Godhead.' "—"Patriarchs and Prophets," page 116.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT

General survey of the lesson.

Questions 1-4.

Questions 5-8.

Question 9-14.

"Your Stewardship and Mine," Intro-

duction and first half of chapter 1.

"Your Stewardship and Mine," sec-

ond half of chapter 1.

Review.

God's Claim to All Creation

To whom do the earth and all who dwell therein belong?

Ps.

24:1.

Why can God justly claim the earth and its inhabitants as

His? Ps.

24:2.

By what means did God create the earth? Ps. 33:6, 9.

NoTE.—Creation was accomplished, not through some long period of

years but instantly, at God's spoken word. And to this day the evidence of

the power of this word is before us, for "God created the seed, as He created

the earth, by His word. By His word He gave it power to grow and multi-

ply. . . . Every seed that sends up its green blade to the sunlight declares

the wonder-working power of the word uttered by Him who `spake, and it

was;' who 'commanded, and it stood fast.'

"—Christ's Object Lessons,

pages

80,81.

How fully does God claim ownership of- the earth? Ps.

50:10-12.

[3]

What claim does God make to the silver and gold? Haggai 2:8.

In what beautiful prayer does David acknowledge God's claim

to all things? 1 Chron. 29:10-14.

NOTE.—"All things are God's, not only by creation, but by redemption.

All the blessings of this life and of the life to come, are delivered to us

stamped with the cross of

Calvary."—Christ's Object Lessons,

page 362.

Christ and Creation

By whom was the work of creation effected? Col. 1:14-16.

How completely was Christ identified with God in this work?

John 1:1-3, 14.

NOTE.—"In the beginning, God was revealed in all the works of creation.

It was Christ that spread the heavens, and laid the foundations of the earth.

It was His hand that hung the worlds in space, and fashioned the flowers of

the field. . . . It was He that filled the earth with beauty, and the air with

song. And upon all things in earth, and air, and sky, He wrote the message

of the Father's love."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 20.

The Place of Man in God's Creation

Over what did God give man dominion? Gen. 1:28; Ps. 8:6-8.

NoTE.—"He [man] was placed, as God's representative, over the lower

orders of being. They cannot understand or acknowledge the sovereignty of

God, yet they were made capable of loving and serving

man."—Patriarchs

and Prophets,

page 45.

10.

What specific work did God commit to the hands of Adam?

Gen. 2:15.

NOTE.—"To the dwellers in Eden was committed the care of the garden,

`to dress it and to keep it.' Their occupation was not wearisome, but

pleasant and invigorating. God appointed labor as a blessing to man, to

occupy his mind, to strengthen his body, and to develop his faculties. In

mental and physical activity, Adam found one of the highest pleasures of his

holy

existence."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 50.

11.

What limitation did God place on man? Gen. 2:16, 17.

NoTE.—"The Lord created every tree in Eden pleasant to the eyes and

good for food, and He bade Adam and Eve freely enjoy His bounties. But

He made one exception. Of the tree of knowledge of good and evil they were

not to eat. This tree God reserved as a constant reminder of His ownership

[ 4 ]

of all. Thus He gave them opportunity to demonstrate their faith and trust

in Him by their perfect obedience to His requirements."—Testimonies, vol.

6, p. 386.

Man's Relationship to God

12.

In the parable of the talents how did Jesus portray God's

relationship to man? Luke 19:12-15.

13.

What fundamental attribute is required of a steward? 1 Cor.

4:2. Compare Luke 12:48, second sentence.

14.

What consideration should influence our service for God?

1 Sam. 12:24.

Lesson 2, for April 8, 1950

Ancient Israel's Call to Service

MEMORY VERSE: "Ye are My witnesses, saith the Lord, and My servant whom

I have chosen: that ye may know and believe Me, and understand that I am He:

before Me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after Me." Isa. 43:10.

STUDY HELP: S. A. Wellman, "Your Stewardship and Mine," chapter 2.

INTRODUCTORY NOTE: "God called Israel, and blessed and exalted them,

not that by obedience to His law they alone might receive His favor, and become the

exclusive recipients of His blessings, but in order to reveal Himself through them

to all the inhabitants of the earth. It was for the accomplishment of this very purpose

that He commanded them to keep themselves distinct from the idolatrous nations

around them."—"Patriarchs and Prophets," page 369.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT

I. General survey of the lesson.



5. "Your Stewardship and Mine,"

first

Questions 1-5.



half of chapter 2.

Questions 6-8.



6. "Your Stewardship and Mine," sec-

Questions 9-14.



and half of chapter 2.

7. Review.

Man's Disobedience and Its Results

1. Before the creation of this world what provisiOn did God

make to ensure the realization of His purpose for man? 2 Tim. 1:9;

Eph. 1:4.

NOTE.—"The

plan for our redemption was not an afterthought, a plan

formulated after the fall of Adam. It was a revelation of 'the mystery which

hath been kept in silence through times eternal.' Rom. 16:25, R.V. It was

an unfolding of the principles that from eternal ages have been the founda-

tion of God's throne. From the beginning, God and Christ knew of the

apostasy of Satan, and of the fall of man through the deceptive power of

]

the apostate. God did not ordain that sin should exist, but He foresaw its

existence, and made provision to meet the terrible emergency."—The

Desire

of Ages,

page 22.

As a result of Adam's disobedience, into what condition did

he fall? Gen. 3:17-19; Rom. 5:12; 2 Peter 2:19, last clause.

NOTE.—"Adam, in his innocence, had enjoyed open communion with his

Maker; but sin brought separation between God and man, and the atonement

of Christ alone could span the abyss, and make possible the communication of

blessing or salvation from heaven to earth. Man was still cut off from

direct approach to His creator, but God would communicate with him

through Christ and

angels."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 67.

What examples of loyalty and disloyalty were seen in Adam's

sons? Gen. 4:3-5.

What conditions prevailed in the lives of men before the

Flood? Gen. 6:5-7.

Following the Flood, how did Noah acknowledge God's sav-

ing and keeping power? Gen. 8:20.

NorE.—"Here was a lesson for all succeeding generations. Noah had come

forth upon a desolate earth; but before preparing a house for himself, he

built an altar to God. His stock of cattle was small, and had been preserved

at great expense; yet he cheerfully gave a part to the Lord, as an acknowledg-

ment that all was His. In like manner it should be our first care to render

our freewill offerings to

God."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 106.

The Call to Stewardship in the Patriarchal Age

What call was made to Abram? What was God's purpose in

this call? Gen. 12:1-5;

What witness is given that Abraham fully acknowledged

God's love and power, and His ownership of all things? Gen. 12:8;

14:20.

What experience came to Jacob as he journeyed to Haran?

What act of worship did he perform? What pledge did he make?

Gen. 28:10-22.

At the Crossroads of the Nations

What responsibility did God place upon His people? Isa.

43:10-12.

NoTE.—"Often the Israelites seemed unable or unwilling to understand

God's purpose for the heathen. Yet it was this very purpose that had made

them a separate people, and had established them as an independent nation

among the nations of the earth. Abraham, their father, to whom the cove-

nant promise was first given, had been called to go forth from his kindred,

to the regions beyond, that he might be a light bearer to the heathen. Al-

though the promise to him included a posterity as numerous as the sand by

the sea, yet it was for no selfish purpose that he was to become the founder

of a great nation in the land of Canaan. God's covenant with him embraced

all the nations of

earth."—Prophets and Kings,

pages 367, 368.

10.

What was God's purpose in choosing Israel to be His pecu-

liar people? Deut. 26:17-19.

11.

What made Israel a separate and distinct people? Ex.

33:14-16.

12.

Why were Israel instructed to keep themselves separate from

the heathen nations about them? Deut. 7:2-4.

13.

What was to be their relation to the strangers who came to

dwell among them? Ex. 12:43-49; 20:10; Lev.

19:34.

Norg.—"God had made provision that all who would renounce heathen-

ism, and connect themselves with Israel, should share the blessings of the

covenant. . . . With few exceptions this class were to enjoy equal favors

and privileges with

Israel."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 507.

14.

Had Israel obeyed God's instruction, what would have been

their relation to Him? Ex. 19:5, 6.

Lesson 3, for April 15, 1950

A Spiritual Stewardship Neglected

MEMORY VERSE: "After seventy years be accomplished at Babylon I will

visit you, and perform My good word toward you, in causing you to return to this

place. For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of

peace, and not of evil, to give

you

an expected end." Jer. 29:10, 11.

STUDY HELP: S. A. Wellman, "Your Stewardship and Mine," chapter 3.

INTRODUCTORY NOTE: "In his study of the causes leading to the Babylonish

captivity, Ezra had learned that Israel's apostasy was largely traceable to their min-

gling with heathen nations. . . .

"The sorrow of Ezra and his associates over the evils that had insidiously crept

into the very heart of the Lord's work, wrought repentance. Many of those who had

sinned, were deeply affected. 'The people wept very sore.' In a limited degree

they

began

to realize the heinousness of sin, and the horror with which God regards it. They

saw the sacredness of the law spoken at Sinai, and many trembled at the thought of

their transgressions."—"Prophets and Kings," pages 620-622.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT

General survey of the lesson.

Questions 1-5.

Questions

6-10.

Questions

11-15.

"Your Stewardship and Mine," first

half of chapter 3.

"Your Stewardship and Mine," sec-

ond half of chapter 3.

Review.

Israel's Spiritual Responsibility

What did God declare would be the result if Israel would

carry out His will? Deut. 28:10-13.

NorE.—"Had Israel been true to God, He could have accomplished His

purpose through their honor and exaltation. If they had walked in the ways

of obedience, He would have made them 'high above all nations which He

hath made, in praise, and in name, and in honor.' All people of the earth,'

said Moses, 'shall see that thou art called by the name of the Lord; and they

shall be afraid of thee.' The nations which shall hear all these statutes' shall

say, 'Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.'

"—The

Desire of Ages,

page 28.

How soon after entering Canaan did Israel begin to forget

God? Joshua 24:31; Judges 2:10-13.

Because of Israel's disloyalty to God, whom did He

leave in

the land to prove Israel? Judges 2:20-23; 3:1, 3, 4.

How did God signalize His acceptance of His sanctuary in

Israel when Solomon's temple was completed? 2 Chron. 5:1, 13, 14;

7:1-3.

In his dedicatory prayer, for whom, among others, did Solo-

mon pray? 1 Kings 8:41-43.

The Decline and Captivity of Israel

When Israel again forgot God, and disobeyed His commands,

what conditions again prevailed in both Israel and Judah? 1 Kings

14:21-24; 12:26-31.

NoTE.—"From the time of Jeroboam's death to Elijah's appearance before'

Ahab, the people of Israel suffered a steady spiritual decline. Ruled by men

who did not fear Jehovah and who encouraged strange forms of worship,

the larger number of the people rapidly lost sight of their duty to serve the

living God, and adopted many of the practices of

idolatry."—Prophets and

Kings,

page 109.

No longer able to bear Israel's rebellions, what did God even-

tually permit to come upon them? 2 Kings 17:5, 6. (Amos 7:11.)

]

NOTE.—The Lord permitted Samaria to be invaded "by the hosts of

Assyria under Shalmaneser; and in the siege that followed, multitudes

perished miserably of hunger and disease as well as by the sword. The city

and nation fell, and the broken remnant of the ten tribes were carried away

captive, and scattered in the provinces of the Assyrian realm. . . . The

Assyrians were merely the instruments that God used to carry out His

purpose.. . .

"Not all who were carried captive were impenitent. . . . Through these,

`the sons of the living God,' He would bring multitude's in the Assyrian realm

to a knowledge of the attributes of His character and the beneficence of His

law."—Prophets and Kings,

pages 291, 292.

Because of Judah's failure to be warned from the experience

that had overtaken Israel, what successive punishment came to them

and to the Holy City? 2 Kings 24:1, 10-16; 25:8-11.

NOTE.—"The enemy swept down like a resistless avalanche, and devas-

tated the city. The Hebrew armies were beaten back in confusion. The nation

was conquered. Zedekiah was taken prisoner, and his sons were slain before

his eyes. The king was led away from Jerusalem a captive, his eyes were

put out, and after arriving in Babylon he perished miserably. The beautiful

temple that for more than four centuries had crowned the summit of Mount

Zion, was not spared by the Chaldeans. . . . Zion was utterly destroyed; the

people of God were in their

captivity."—Prophets and Kings,

pages 458-461.

Promises of Restoration Fulfilled

What foreign monarch did God use in preparing the way

for His people to be restored to their own land? Ezra 1:1-4. Com-

pare Isa. 44:28 and 45:1, 13.

Nora.—God had promised through Jeremiah the prophet that Israel

would be given an opportunity to return to Canaan at the end of the seventy

years of captivity. (Jer. 29:10; 2 Chron. 36:21.)

"Just at the time God had said He would cause His temple at Jerusalem

to be rebuilt, He moved upon Cyrus as His agent to discern the prophecies

concerning himself, with which Daniel was so familiar, and to grant the

Jewish people their

liberty."—Prophets and Kings,

page 557.

10.

Under what Persian king was the promise definitely and

finally carried out? Ezra 7:11, 21-26. Compare 6:14.

11.

What lesson did the Israelites who returned to their own

land seek to learn? Neh. 8:1-3, 8.

NoTE.—"Wherever Ezra labored, there sprang up a revival in the study

of the Holy Scriptures. Teachers were appointed to instruct the people; the

law of the Lord was exalted and made honorable. The books of the prophets

were searched, and the passages foretelling the coming of the Messiah brought

hope and comfort to many a sad and weary heart. . . . Through the cen-

C 93

tuHes, the record of his [Ezra's] life of consecration has inspired many with

the determination 'to seek the law of the Lord, and to do it.'

"—Prophets

and Kings,

page 623.

12.

What followed their study of God's law? How did they

relate themselves to the Sabbath? Neh. 10:28-31.

13.

What pledges did they make concerning the support of the

house and worship of God? Neh. 10:32-37.

NOTE.—"Provision

was also made to support the public worship of God.

In addition to the tithe, the congregation pledged themselves to contribute

yearly a stated sum for the service of the sanctuary. . . . Israel had returned

to God with deep sorrow for backsliding. They had made confession with

mourning and lamentation. They had acknowledged the righteousness of

God's dealings with them, and had covenanted to obey His

law."—Prophets

and Kings,

page 667.

14.

In spite of their promises, what weighty obligations were

eventually forgotten? Matt. 23:23, 25-28.

NoTE.—"The Pharisees were very exact in tithing garden herbs, such as

mint, anise, and rue; this cost them little, and it gave them a reputation for

exactness and sanctity. At the same time their useless restrictions oppressed

the people and destroyed respect for the sacred system of God's own appoint-

ing. They occupied men's minds with trifling distinctions, and turned their

attention from essential truths."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 617.

15.

In Christ's day what had become the attitude of the nation

toward the strangers among them? John 4:9; Acts 10:28.

NoTE.—"The people who had been given every opportunity to under-

stand the truth were without a knowledge of the needs of those around them.

No effort was made to help souls in darkness. The partition wall which

Jewish pride had erected, shut even the disciples from sympathy with the

heathen world. But these barriers were to be broken down."—The

Desire of

Ages,

page 400.

Lesson

4, for April 22, 1950

Stewardship of Time and Other Talents

MEMORY VERSE: "He asked life of Thee, and Thou gayest it him, even length

of days for ever and ever." Ps. 21:4.

STUDY HELPS: S. A. Wellman, "Your Stewardship and Mine," chapter 4;

"Counsels on Stewardship," pages 114-120; 123-126.

INTRODUCTORY NOTE: "All men have been bought with this infinite price.

pouring the whole treasury of heaven into this world, by giving us in Christ all

heaven, God has purchased the will, the affections, the mind, the soul of every human

[ 10 ]

being. Whether believers or unbelievers, all men are the Lord's property. All are

called to do service for Him, and for the manner in which they have met this claim,

all will be required to render an account at the great judgment day."—"Christ's Object

Lessons," page 326.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT

General survey of the lesson.

Questions 1-6.

Questions 7-9.

Questions 10-13.

"Your Stewardship and Mine," first

half of chapter

4; "Counsels on

Stewardship," pages 114-120.

"Your Stewardship and Mine," sec-

ond half of chapter 4; "Counsels

on Stewardship," pages 123-126.

Review.

Our Accountability for the Use of Time

In what words does the psalmist acknowledge accountability

for the use of time? Ps. 90:12.

NOTE.—"Time

is one of the important talents which God has entrusted

to us and for which He will call us to account. A waste of time is a waste

intellect."—Testimonies,

vol. 3, p. 146.

Who is the giver of time and opportunity for service? Ps.

91:16; 21:4.

Recognition of Holy Time

What recognition of His ownership of our time does the

Lord require? Ex. 20:8-10.

NcrrE.—"God reserved to Himself a specified portion of man's time and

of his means, and no man could, without guilt, appropriate either for his

own

interests."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

pages 525, 526.

When did God set apart a specific day in recognition of His

ownership? Ex. 20:11; Gen. 2:1-3.

NoTE.—"In Eden, God set up the memorial of His work of creation, in

placing His blessing upon the seventh day. The Sabbath was committed to

Adam, the father and representative of the whole human family. Its

observance was to be an act of grateful acknowledgment, on the part of all

who should dwell upon the earth, that God was their Creator and their

rightful sovereign; that they were the work of His hands, and the subjects

of His authority. Thus the institution was wholly commemorative, and

given to all

mankind."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 48.

What special significance is attached to the faithful observ-

ance of the Sabbath? Ex. 31:13-17.

What blessings are promised to those who with all their

hearts observe the Sabbath? Isa. 58:13, 14.

[

]

Christians

Are

Diligent

What instruction does the apostle Paul give concerning our

attitude to business and the service of the Lord? Rom. 12:11. Com-

pare Prov. 22:29.

What lesson in stewardship did Christ teach His friends in

Bethany? Luke 10:38-42.

NOTE.—"Life is too solemn to be absorbed in temporal and earthly mat-.

ters, in a treadmill of care and anxiety for the things that are but an atom

in comparison with the things of eternal interest. Yet God has called us to

serve Him in the temporal affairs of life. Diligence in this work is as much

a part of true religion as is devotion."—Christ's

Object Lessons,

page 343.

What are Christians admonished to do? Eph. 5:16.

Service With All the Heart

10.

By what parable did Christ teach our accountability for

every mental and spiritual gift? Matt. 25:14, 15.

NOTE. "The talents that Christ entrusts to His church represent espe-

cially the gifts and blessings imparted by the Holy Spirit. . . . The special

gifts of the Spirit are not the only talents represented in the parable. It

includes all gifts and endowments, whether original or acquired, natural or

spiritual. All are to be employed in Christ's

service."—Christ's Object Les-

sons,

pages 327, 328.

11.

What course did these servants pursue? What accounting

was made on their Lord's return? Matt. 25:16-30.

NOTE.—"We shall individually be held responsible for doing one jot less

than we have ability to do. The Lord measures with exactness every pos-

sibility for service. The unused capabilities are as much brought into account

as are those that are improved. For all that we might become through the

right use of our talents God holds us responsible."—Christ's

Object Lessons,

page 363.

12.

How completely will true love to God absorb our faculties?

Mark 12:30.

13.

By what service will the loyalty of God's true children be

shown? What reward awaits these faithful ones? Matt. 25:31-40.

(Read

The Desire of Ages,

pages 637-641.)

[ 12 ]

Lesson 5, for April 29, 1950

The Stewardship of Physical Health

MEMORY VERSE: "Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do,

do all to the glory of God." 1 Cor. 10:31.

STUDY HELPS: S. A. Wellman, "Your Stewardship and Mine," chapter 5;

"Counsels on Stewardship," pages 121, 122.

INTRODUCTORY NOTE: "Through the agencies of nature, God is working,

day by day, hour by hour, moment by moment, to keep us alive, to build up and restore

us."—"The Ministry of Healing," page 112.

"As the foundation principle of all education in these lines, the youth should be

taught that the laws of nature are the laws of God,—as truly divine as are the precepts

of the Decalogue. The laws that govern our physical organism, God has written

upon every nerve, muscle, and fiber of the body. Every careless or willful violation of

these laws is a sin against our Creator."—"Education," pages 196, 197.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT

General survey of the lesson.

Questions 1-6.

Questions 7-9; "Counsels on Stew-

ardship," pages 121, 122.

Questions 10-12.

"Your Stewardship and Mine," first

half of chapter 5.

"Your Stewardship and Mine," sec-

ond half of chapter 5.

Review.

God's Provision for the Health of His People

With what does the apostle John connect physical well-

being? 3 John 2.

NoTE.—"The Saviour in His miracles revealed the power that is con-

tinually at work in man's behalf, to sustain and to heal him. . . . When any

part of the body sustains injury, a healing process is at once begun; nature's

agencies are set at work to restore soundness. But the power working

through these agencies is the power of God. All life-giving power is from

Him. When one recovers from disease, it is God who restores

him."—The

Ministry of Healing,

pages 112, 113.

What did God promise Israel if they served Him faithfully?

Ex. 15:26; 23:25.

NOTE.—Exodus

15:26 includes one of the ten "Jehovah titles," in which

the name Jehovah is joined to some other great word of assurance. Here it

is "Jehovah Ropheka"—"Jehovah that healeth thee." How preciously

connected with this is what is said of Jesus: "Himself took our infirmities,

and bare our sicknesses." Matt. 8:17.

What provision did God make for the protection of ancient

Israel against the physical evils of surrounding nations, and to pre-

serve their health?

ANswEa: Israel was given a code of sanitation and hygiene which has

[ 13 ]

been a model to succeeding generations. (See Leviticus, chapters 11-15, 17;

also

The Ministry of Healing,

pages 277-286.)

What special blessing was bestowed upon Israel as they left

Egypt? Ps. 105:37.

NorE.—"Had the Israelites obeyed the instructions they received, and

profited by their advantages, they would have been the world's object lesson

of health and prosperity. If as a people they had lived according to God's

plan, they would have been preserved from the diseases that afflicted other

nations. Above any other people they would have possessed physical

strength, and vigor of intellect. They would have been the mightiest nation

on the earth."—The

Ministry of Healing,

page 283.

What blessed experience is coupled with the forgiveness of

sin? Ps. 103:3-5.

While Christ was personally among men, what service did

He perform for the sick? Matt. 4:23.

A Dwelling Place for God

Whose dwelling place are we? What are we, therefore, urged

to do? 1 Cor. 6:19, 20.

How will God recompense those who defile the temple of

God? 1 Cor. 3:17.

What outstanding example of loyalty to the principles of

health and temperance is recorded in the. Scriptures? Dan. 1:8-16.

Striving for the Mastery

10.

From the rigid training of contestants in ancient games,

what lesson does the apostle Paul draw? 1 Cor. 9:24-27. •

NorE.—"The contests were governed by strict regulations, from which

there was no appeal. Those who desired their names entered as competitors

for the prize, had first to undergo a severe preparatory training. Harmful

indulgence of appetite, or any other gratification that would lower mental or

physical vigor, was strictly forbidden. . • .

"How much more important that the Christian, whose eternal inter-

ests are at stake, bring appetite and passion under subjection to reason and

the will of God! Never must he allow his attention to be diverted by amuse-

ments, luxuries, or ease. All his habits and passions must be brought under

the strictest discipline. Reason, enlightened by the teachings of God's word

and guided by His Spirit, must hold the reins of control."—Acts

of the

Apostles,

pages 309-311.

C 14 ]

11.

How much does true temperance include?

ANSWER:

Diet :

Eccl. 10:17.

NorE.—"Those foods •should be chosen that best supply the elements

needed for building up the body. In this choice, appetite is not a safe

guide. Through wrong habits of eating, the appetite has become perverted.

Often it demands food that impairs health and causes weakness instead of

strength. We cannot safely be guided by the customs of society. The disease

and suffering that everywhere prevail are largely due to popular errors in

regard to diet."—The

Ministry of Healing,

page 295. Read also pages 295-310.

Pure Water:

NOTE.—"In health and in sickness, pure water is one of heaven's choicest

blessings. Its proper use promotes health. It is the beverage which God

provided to quench the thirst of animals and man. Drunk freely, it helps to

supply the necessities of the system, and assists nature to resist disease."—

The Ministry of Healing,

page 237.

Fresh Air:

NOTE.—"In order to have good blood, we must breathe well. Full, deep

inspirations of pure air, which fill the lungs with oxygen, purify the blood.

They impart to it a bright color, and send it, a life-giving current, to every

part of the body. A good respiration soothes the nerves; it stimulates the

appetite, and renders digestion more perfect ; and it induces sound, refreshing

sleep."—The

Ministry of Healing,

page 272.

Rest:

Mark 6:31.

NOTE.—"Some make themselves sick by overwork. For these, rest, free-

dom from care, and a spare diet, are essential to restoration of health."—The

Ministry of Healing,

page 236.

Exercise:

Eccl. 5:12.

NorE.—"Proper periods of sleep and rest and an abundance of physical

exercise are essential to health of body and

mind."—Gospel Workers,

page 423.

Dress:

1 Peter 3:3,4.

NOTE.—Our clothing "should be chosen for durability rather than display.

It should provide warmth and proper protection. . . . In all respects the

dress should be healthful."—The

Ministry of Healing,

page 288. Also read

pages 287-294.

Mental Peace:

Prov. 17:22; Matt. 11:28; John 14:27.

NorE.—"Courage, hope, faith, sympathy, love, promote health and pro-

long life. A contented mind, a cheerful spirit, is health to the body and

strength to the soul."—The

Ministry of Healing,

page 241.

12.

What, therefore, are all Christians exhorted to do? 1 Cor.

10:31; Rom. 12:1.

Remember the Thirteenth Sabbath Offering,

June 24, 1950.

[15]

Lesson 6, for May 6, 1950

Stewardship in the Home

MEMORY VERSE: "Therefore also I have lent him to the Lord; as long as

he liveth he shall be lent to the Lord. And he worshiped the Lord there." 1 Sam. 1:28.

STUDY HELP: S. A. Wellman, "Your Stewardship and Mine," chapter 6.

INTRODUCTORY NOTE: "Above any other agency, service for Christ's sake

in the little things of everyday experience has power to mold the character and to direct

the life into lines of unselfish ministry. To awaken this spirit, to encourage, and

rightly to direct it, is the parent's and the teacher's work. No more important work

could be committed to them. The spirit of ministry is the spirit of heaven, and with

every effort to develop and encourage it angels will co-operate."—"The Ministry of

Healing," page 401.

"Children are the heritage of the Lord, and we are answerable to Him for our

management of His property."—"Christ's Object Lessons," page 195.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT

General survey of the lesson.



5. "Your Stewardship and Mine," first

Questions 1-3.



half of chapter 6.

Questions 4-9.



6. "Your Stewardship and Mine," sec-

Questions 10-13.



and half of chapter 6.

7. Review.

A Home Where God Dwells

How did God provide companionship for man? Gen. 2:18,

21-24.

What picture of a happy home is drawn by the psalmist? Ps.

128:2, 3, 6.

NoTE.—Under divine inspiration the psalmist draws a delightful picture

of a peaceful, godly home. In such a home love for God and for one another

dominate the scene. In these homes peace dwells, and the happy influence

of the home is felt in the entire community. Under the direction of the

Holy Spirit this kind of home builds up the kingdom of heaven.

What are our children said to be? Ps. 127:3; Gen. 33:5.

NOTE.—"Children

area heritage from the Lord, and they are to be

trained for His service. This is the work that rests upon parents and teachers

with solemn, sacred force, which they cannot evade or ignore. To neglect

this work marks them as unfaithful servants; but there is a reward when the

seed of truth is early sown in the heart and carefully tended."—Counsels

Teachers,

pages 143, 144.

Training Our Children

How does the apostle Paul instruct parents to bring up their

children? Eph. 6:4.

[ 16 ]

NOTE.—"The law of God is to be kept before the minds of the children

as the great moral standard. When they rise up, and when they sit down,

when they go out, and when they come in, this law is to be taught them as

the great rule of life, and its principles are to be interwoven with all their

experience. They are to be taught to be honest, truthful, temperate, economi- •

cal, and industrious, and to love God with the whole heart. This is bringing

them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. This is setting their

feet in the path of duty and

safety."—Testimonies, vol.

5, p. 329.

What was God's command to ancient Israel concerning the

training of the family? Deut. 6:6, 7.

What results will follow proper early training? Prov. 22:6.

NOTE. "The training that Solomon enjoins is to direct, educate, develop.

But in order for parents to do this work, they must themselves understand

the 'way' the child should go. It is impossible for parents to give their chil-

dren proper training unless they first give themselves to God, learning of

the Great Teacher lessons of obedience to His

will."—Counsels to Teachers,

page 108.

What example of careful instruction does Paul cite? 2 Tim.

3:15.

NOTE.—"God had commanded the Hebrews to teach their children His

requirements, and to make them acquainted with all His dealings with their

fathers. This was one of the special duties of every parent,—one that was

not to be delegated to another. . . . Such was the training of Moses. . . .

Such, too, was the early life of Christ at Nazareth; such the training by

which the child Timothy learned from the lips of his 'grandmother Lois, and

his mother Eunice,' the truths of Holy

Writ."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 592.

Service Is Good for Youth

What is said to be good for youth? Lam. 3:27.

NorE.—A sense of responsibility, the bearing of burdens, should early be

taught to every child. Careful plans should be laid for him to perform

specific duties about the home, the farm, and the garden, and that their

execution is performed with care and exactness.

What are youth admonished to do? Eccl. 12:1.

NOTE.—We are definitely instructed concerning what our children should

be taught to do in relation to their Creator. We read:

"Teach your children that God has a claim upon all they possess, a claim

that nothing can ever cancel; whatever they have is theirs only in trust as a

test of their obedience. Inspire them with ambition to gain stars for their

crown by winning many souls from sin to righteousness. Money is a needed

[ 17 ]

treasure; let it not be lavished upon those who do not need it. Someone

needs your willing

gifts."—Testimonies,

vol. 6, p. 451.

10.

What Biblical example is given of a negligent parent, and

the result of a lack of discipline? 1 Sam. 2:12-17, 34; 3:13.

NoTE.—"There is no greater curse upon households than to allow the

youth to have their own way. When parents regard every wish of their

children, and indulge them in what they know is not for their good, the

children soon lose all respect for their parents, all regard for the authority

of God or man, and are led captive at the will of Satan. The influence of

an ill-regulated family is widespread, and disastrous to all society. It accu-

mulates in a tide of evil that affects families, communities, and governments."

—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 579.

11.

What early examples of right child training are given in

the New Testament? Luke 1:80; 2:40, 49-52.

12.

What should the father make known to his children? Isa.

38:19, last part.

13.

What precious experience is promised to parents and chil-

dren in the last days? For what should parents be preparing their

children? Mal. 4:5, 6.

NOTE.—"Every son and daughter of God is called to be a missionary; we

are called to the service of God and our fellow men; and to fit us for this

service should be the object of our education.

"This object should ever be kept in view by Christian parents and teach-

ers. We know not in what line our children may serve. They may spend

their lives within the circle of the home; they may engage in life's common

vocations, or go as teachers of the gospel to heathen lands; but all are alike

called to be missionaries for God, ministers of mercy to the world."—The

Ministry of Healing,

page 395.

Lesson 7,

for

May 13, 1950

Jesus, Our Example in Stewardship

MEMORY VERSE: "Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto,

but to minister, and to give His life a ransom for many." Matt. 20:28.

STUDY HELPS: S. A. Wellman, "Your Stewardship and Mine," chapter 7;

"Counsels on Stewardship," pages 25-28.

INTRODUCTORY NOTE: "As this wonderful, priceless Gift was bestowed, the

whole heavenly universe was mightily stirred in an effort to understand God's unfath-

omable love, stirred to awaken in human hearts a gratitude proportionate to the value

of the Gift. Shall we, for whom Christ has given His life, halt between two opinions?

Shall we return to God only a mite of the capabilities and powers lent us by Him?

How can we do this while we know that He who was Commander of all heaven laid

[ 18 ]

aside His royal robe and kingly crown, and, realizing the helplessness of the fallen race,

came to this earth in human nature to make it possible for us to unite our humanity

to His divinity? He became poor that we might come into possession of the heavenly

treasure, 'a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.' 2 Cor. 4:17. To rescue

us He descended from one humiliation to another until He, the divine-human, suffering

Christ, was uplifted on the cross to draw all men to Himself. The Son of God could

not have shown greater condescension than He did; He could hot have stooped

lower."—"Testimonies," vol. 7, p. 29.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT

General survey of the lesson.



25-28; "Your Stewardship and

Questions 1-3.



Mine," first half of chapter 7.

Questions 4-8.



6. "Your Stewardship and Mine," sec-

Questions 9-14.



and half of chapter 7.

"Counsels on Stewardship, pages



7. Review.

God's Impelling Love

What impelled God to send His Son into the world to save

men? John 3:16; 1 John 4:9.

NoTE.—"It was a costly sacrifice that the Lord of heaven made. Divine

benevolence was stirred to its unfathomable depths; it was impossible for

God to give

more."—Testimonies,

vol. 9, p. 59, 60.

In what spirit did Christ enter upon the great task entrusted

to Him? Phil. 2:6-8.

NoTE.—The Revised Standard Version of the New Testament gives the

following translation of these verses: "Who, though He was in the form of

God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied

Himself, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.

And being found in human form He humbled Himself and became obedient

unto death, even death on a cross."

How completely did He identify Himself with the human

family? Heb. 2:9, 10, 14, 16.

Christ's Example in Service

What change came into Christ's life when He came into this

world? 2 Cor. 8:9.

NOTE.—"You

know the height from which He stooped, the depth of

humiliation to which He descended. His feet entered upon the path of

sacrifice, and turned not aside until He had given His life. There was no

rest for Him between the throne in heaven and the cross. His love for man

led Him to welcome every indignity, and suffer every abuse."---The

Ministry

of Healing,

page 501.

What did Christ delight to do? Ps. 40:8.

]

What did Christ while on earth seek to do for men? What

made this possible? Acts 10:38.

NOTE.—"Our Lord Jesus Christ came to this world as the unwearied

servant of man's necessity. He 'took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses,'

that He might minister to every need of humanity. . . . It was His mission

to bring to men complete restoration; He came to give them health and peace

and perfection of character."—The

Ministry of Healing,

page 17.

What was His message to Israel as He began His ministry?

As His disciples went out, what message were they to carry? What

work were they to do? Matt. 4:17; 10:7, 8.

How are we to relate ourselves to the spirit of sacrifice and

service? John 13:15-17; Matt. 19:21; James 1:27.

NorE.—"His [Christ's] whole life was under a law of service. He served

all, ministered to all. Thus He lived the law of God, and by His example

showed how we are to obey

it."—The Desire of Ages,

page 649.

To Seek and to Save

For what purpose did Christ say He came into the world?

Matt. 20:28.

NOTE.—"Christ gave no stinted service. He did not measure His work

by hours. His time, His heart, His soul and strength, were given to labor

for the benefit of humanity. Through weary days He toiled, and through

long nights He bent in prayer for grace and endurance that He might do

a larger work. . . . To His workers He says, 'I have given you an example,

that ye should do as I have done.'

"—The Ministry of Healing,

page 500.

10.

Whose will did Jesus carry out in His ministry and sacri-

fice? John 6:38.

11.

What was Christ's expressed attitude as He drew near the

time of the supreme sacrifice? John 12:27; Matt. 26:39.

12.

How was the price of Calvary portrayed in Isaiah's proph-

ecy? Isa.53:3-9.

13.

What hope sustained Him in making this great sacrifice for

man? Isa. 53:11. Compare Heb. 12:2.

14.

What personal lessons should His followers learn from His

example? 1 Peter 2:21.

[ 20 ]

NOTE.—"Through

trial and persecution the glory—the character—of God

is revealed in His chosen ones. The believers in Christ, hated and persecuted

by the world, are educated and disciplined in the school of Christ. On earth

they walk in narrow paths; they are purified in the furnace of affliction.

They follow Christ through sore conflicts; they endure self-denial, and

experience bitter disappointments; but thus they learn the guilt and woe of

sin, and they look upon it with abhorrence. Being partakers of Christ's

sufferings, they can look beyond the gloom to the glory, saying, 'I teckon

that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with

the glory which shall be revealed in

us.' "—The Acts of the Apostles,

pages

576,577.

Lesson 8, for May 20, 1950

The Steward's Responsibility to the World

MEMORY VERSE:. "I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles,, that thou

mayest be My salvation unto the end of the earth." Isa. 49:6, last part.

STUDY HELP: S. A. Wellman, "Your Stewardship and Mine," chapter 8.

INTRODUCTORY NOTE: "Men are in peril. Multitudes are perishing. But

how few of the professed followers of Christ are burdened for these souls. The destiny

of a world hangs in the balance; but this hardly moves even those who claim to believe

the most far-reaching truth ever given to mortals. . . . With the whole world before

them in need of the gospel, professed Christians congregate together where they them-

selves can enjoy gospel privileges. They do not feel the necessity of occupying new

territory, carrying the message of salvation into regions beyond. They refuse to fulfill

Christ's commission, 'Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every crea-

ture.' Are they less guilty than was the Jewish church?"—"Christ's Object Lessons,"

page 303.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT

General survey of the lesson.

Questions 1-4.

Questions 5-8.

Questions 9-12.

"Your Stewardship and Mine," first

half of chapter 8.

"Your Stewardship and Mine," sec-

ond half of chapter 8.

Review.

A World in Darkness

How does the gospel prophet describe the condition of the

world? Isa. 60:2, first part.

How is every soul out of Christ described? Eph. 2:12.

NoTE.—Every soul that has found the Saviour and has had his life

transformed by His power, came out of dense spiritual darkness. Regardless

of the nationality, race, or privileges of the individual, in spite of educational

advantages, or positions of preferment in this world, no man has the light

that shines brighter and brighter unto the perfect day until he has entered

into the presence of Christ and found Him the Saviour of his soul. Then

[21

]

there is shed abroad in his heart a light and joy and hope not to be found

elsewhere. Until that hour it is darkness such as Paul describes—"Having

no hope, and without God in the world." Eph. 2:12.

Given a World Task

3.. What is Christ's express desire that His followers should do

for the sin-darkened world? Matt. 5:14-16.

NOTE.—"What is light? It is piety, goodness, truth, mercy, love; it is

the revealing of the truth in the character and

life."—Review and Herald,

March 24, 1891, quoted in

Christian Service,

page 21.

What does Paul say the Lord has commanded the apostles to

do? Acts 13:47.

What command did Jesus give His disciples just before His

ascension? What power would accompany them in their labors?

Matt. 28:18-20.

Where was their witness to begin? To what places would it

extend? Acts 1:8.

NOTE.—"To you, My disciples, I [Jesus] commit this message of mercy.

It is to be given to Israel first, and then to all nations, tongues, and peoples.

It is to be given to Jews and Gentiles. All who believe are to be gathered

into one church. Through the gift of the Holy Spirit the disciples were to

receive a marvelous power. Their testimony was to be confirmed by signs

and wonders. Miracles would be wrought, not only by the apostles, but

by those who received their message."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 821.

7, What results followed their witness? Acts 2:41; 4:4.

Not an Easy Task

8. What could the disciples expect as a part of their experience

of ministry? Matt. 10:16-24.

NOTE.—"The Saviour's

eye

penetrates the future; He beholds the broader

fields in which, after His death, the disciples are to be witnesses for Him.

His prophetic glance takes in the experience of His servants through all

the ages till He shall come the second time. . . . They are to contend with

supernatural forces, but they are assured of supernatural help. All the intel-

ligences of heaven are in this army. And more than angels are in the ranks.

The Holy Spirit, the representative of the Captain of the Lord's host, comes

down to direct the battle. Our infirmities may be many, our sins and mis-

takes grievous; but the grace of God is for all who seek it with contrition. The

power of Omnipotence is enlisted in behalf of those who trust in God."—

The Desire of Ages,

page 352.

[22

]

Because the disciples failed to go beyond their national sur-

roundings, what did God permit to come upon the church? What

results followed? Acts 8:1, 4.

10.

To what special work was Paul called after his conversion?

Through what experiences would he be called upon to pass? Acts

9:15, 16; 26:16-21.

NoTE.—Paul was called to no easy task. The succeeding years were filled

with arduous labors, suffering, and privation, which ended only with his

death. Of those experiences we read, "Amidst the constant storm of opposi-

tion, the clamor of enemies, and the desertion of friends, the intrepid apostle

almost lost heart. But he looked back to Calvary, and with new ardor

pressed on to spread the knowledge of the Crucified. He was but treading

the bloodstained path that Christ had trodden before him. He sought no

discharge from the warfare till he should lay off his armor at the feet of

his Redeemer."—The

Acts of the Apostles,

page 297.

11.

At the close of these arduous and trying years of faithful

service what witness could the apostle give? 2 Tim. 4:6-8.

NOTE.—This testimony of the aged, war-worn apostle is presented in

these words: "Well-nigh a score of centuries have passed since Paul the aged

poured out his blood as a witness for the word of God and the testimony of

Jesus Christ. No faithful hand recorded for the generations to come the

last scenes in the life of this holy man; but Inspiration has preserved for us

his dying testimony. Like a trumpet peal his voice has rung out through

all the ages since, nerving with his own courage thousands of witnesses for

Christ, and wakening in thousands of sorrow-stricken hearts the echo of his

own triumphant

joy."—The Acts of the Apostles,

page 513.

12.

What precious prophetic promises are made to all faithful

servants of the Master? Isa. 43:5-7; 49:6, 12.

Lesson 9, for May 27, 1950

Our Stewardship in Tithe Paying

MEMORY VERSE: "Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may

be meat in Mine house, and prove Me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will

not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not

room enough to receive it." Mal. 3:10.

STUDY HELPS: S. A. Wellman, "Your Stewardship and Mine," chapter 9;

"Counsels on Stewardship," pages 65-107.

INTRODUCTORY NOTE: "We are to praise God by tangible service, by doing

all

in our power to advance the glory of His name. God imparts His gifts to us that

we also may give, and thus make known His character to the world. Under the Jewish

economy, gifts and offerings formed an essential part of God's worship. The Israelites

were

taught to devote a tithe of all their income to the

service

of the sanctuary. Besides

[ 23 ]

this they were to bring sin offerings, freewill gifts, and offerings of gratitude. These

were the means for supporting the ministry of the gospel for that time. God expects

no less from us than He expected from His people anciently. The great work for the

salvation of souls must be carried forward. In the tithe, with gifts and offerings, He

has made provision for this work. Thus He intends that the ministry of the gospel

shall be sustained. . . . All are to be devoted to the sending of the gospel unto the

uttermost parts of the earth."—"Christ's Object Lessons," page 300.



DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT

General survey of the lesson.

Questions 1-5.

Questions 6-8.

Questions 9-14.

"Your Stewardship and Mine," first

half of chapter 9; "Counsels

on Stewardship," pages 65-81.

"Your Stewardship and Mine," sec-

ond half of chapter 9; "Counsels

on Stewardship," pages 82-94.

Review; "Counsels on Stewardship,"

pages 95-107.

Acknowledging God's Ownership

What have we already learned concerning divine ownership?

Ps. 24:1, 2; 50:10-12; Haggai 2:8.

In what manner did Abraham acknowledge God as "possessor

of heaven and earth"? Gen. 14:17-20.

In what words did Jacob, in his vow to the Lord, include

faithfulness in tithing? Gen. 28:20-22.

In the code of laws given to Israel, what instruction was given

them concerning faithfulness in tithing? Lev. 27:30-32; Deut. 14:22.

NOTE.—"The

tithing system did not originate with the Hebrews. From

the earliest times the Lord claimed a tithe as His; and this claim was

recognized and honored. Abraham paid tithe to Melchizedek, the priest of

the most high God. Jacob, when at Bethel, an exile and a wanderer, promised

the Lord, 'Of all that Thou shalt give me I will surely give the tenth unto

Thee.' As the Israelites were about to be established as a nation, the law

of tithing was reaffirmed, as one of the divinely ordained statutes upon

obedience to which their prosperity

depended."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 525.

After the deliverance of Israel from Egypt, what specific

instruction was given concerning tithing? Lev. 27:30.

NOTE.—"In the Hebrew economy, one tenth of the income of the people

was set apart to support the public worship of God. Thus Moses declared

to Israel: 'All the tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land, or of

the fruit of the tree,

is the Lord's; it is holy unto the Lord.'



concerning

the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, . . . the tenth shall be holy unto the

Lord.' . . .

24]

"The system of tithes and offerings was intended to impress the minds

of men with a great truth,—that God is the source of every blessing to His

creatures, and that to Him man's gratitude is due for the good gifts of His

providence."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 525.

The Divine Plan for the Support of Those

Who Minister About Holy Things

6. For what purpose was the tithe to be used? Num. 18:21, 24.

In what words does the apostle Paul indicate the responsibil-

ity of the believers to support those who minister to them in the

gospel? 1 Cor. 9:7-14.

NOTE.—Although the priests in the sanctuary ceased their work of the

priesthood in the sanctuary with the cessation of the services on earth, those

whom God has ordained as His ministers are their spiritual successors today.

The same obligations for their support rest upon the Christian church. The

provisions for this support are "even so," or identical with the original

tithing system.

In what words did Christ enjoin the duty of tithing? Matt.

23:23.

NoTE.—In this scripture Christ approves the principle of tithing. Though.

He condemns dependence for salvation on strictness in tithing, though He

emphasizes that disloyalty in spiritual and moral obligations cannot be

covered by the payment of tithes and offerings, yet He commends the

payment of a full tithe.

The Results of Wrong and Right Attitudes to Tithing

What was the result when Israel failed to bring in their tithe

and offerings? Neh. 13:10.

NoTE.—When God's children fail to return to God His own and do not

observe the instruction concerning the prescribed offerings, the ministry of

the word suffers. Workers turn to their ordinary pursuits. The teaching

of the Scriptures is neglected, and God's cause on earth languishes and stands

still.

10.

How was the situation remedied in Nehemiah's day? What

other requirements of God are usually neglected when the tithe

and offerings are withheld? Neh. 13:11, 12, 15-18.

NoTE.—As a result of their contact with the idolatrous nations among

which they had dwelt and with whom they had to some extent intermingled,

the temple service and its support had been neglected, and the people had

E25

]

grown careless in their observance of the Sabbath. These two signs—the

tithe, an acknowledgment of God's ownership of all things, and the Sabbath,

the sign of His control of our time and of His sanctifying power upon His

people—had been relegated into partial oblivion. Satan seeks unceasingly

to veil all that will help God's children to remember their Creator; and he

emphasizes those things which will eclipse Christ, with His saving grace

and power.

11.

Of what are God's children accused by the prophet Malachi?

What does God invite them to do? With what results? Mal. 3:8-12.

NorE.—"As the Giver of every blessing, God claims a certain portion

of all we possess. This is His provision to sustain the preaching of the

gospel. And by making this return to God, we are to show our appreciation

of His gifts. But if we withhold from Him that which is His own, how can

we claim His blessing? If we are unfaithful stewards of earthly things, how

can we expect Him to entrust us with the things of heaven? It may be that

here is the secret of unanswered prayer."—Christ's

Object Lessons,

page 144.

Modern Israel's Responsibility

12.

What enormous task has been laid upon Christ's church?

Matt. 28:18-20; Rev. 14:6.

NOTE.—See Introductory Note. This world-wide task calls for corre-

sponding faithfulness in tithes and offerings.

13.

What would result if all the children of God paid a faithful

tithe?

ANSWER:

"If our churches will take their stand upon the Lord's word

and be faithful in paying their tithe into His treasury, more laborers will

be encouraged to take up ministerial work. More men would give themselves

to the ministry were they not told of the depleted treasury. There should

be an abundant supply in the Lord's treasury, and there would be if selfish

hearts and hands had not withheld the tithes or made use of them to support

other lines of

work."—Testimonies,

vol. 9, p.

249.

14.

In the message of the first angel of Revelation 14, how does

God call upon the remnant to recognize His ownership of the

world? Rev. 14:7.

NorE.—The call of this message is an acknowledgment of the Creator.

It calls upon men to give Him glory, and to fear Him, in preparation-for

the hour of judgment. This will lead to obedience, to fullness of loyalty and

devotion. It will cause everyone that accepts the message to acknowledge

God's ownership of all His just claim upon our money, our time, our talents,

our bodily health and strength, and of our children, for He made them. In

devoting them to the work of making Him known as the Creator, we are

but returning to Him His own.

[26

]

Lesson 10, for June 3, 1950

Our Stewardship in Freewill Offerings

MEMORY VERSE: "For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much

required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more."

Luke 12:48, last part.

STUDY HELP: S. A. Wellman, "Your Stewardship and Mine," chapter 10;

"Counsels on Stewardship," pages 198-206.

INTRODUCTORY NOTE: "All who have borne with Jesus the cross of sacri-

fice will be sharers with Him of His glory. It was the joy of Christ in His humiliation

and pain that His disciples should

glorified with Him. They are the fruit of His

self-sacrifice. The outworking in them of His own character and spirit is His reward,

and will be His joy throughout eternity. This joy they share with Him as the fruit

of their labor and sacrifice is seen in other hearts and lives. They are workers together

with Christ, and the Father will honor them as He honors His Son."—"The Desire of

Ages," page 624.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT

General survey of the lesson.



6. "Your Stewardship and Mine," sec-

Questions 1-4.



and half of chapter 10.

Questions 5-8.



7. Review; "Counsels on Stewardship,"

Questions 9-15.



pages 198-206.

"Your Stewardship and Mine," first

half of chapter 10.

Early Tests of Loyalty

What test did the Lord make to prove the loyalty of Adam and

Eve? Gen. 2:16,17; 3:3.

NOTE.—"At the very beginning of man's existence a check was placed

upon the desire for self-indulgence, the fatal passion that lay at the founda-

tion of Satan's fall. The tree of knowledge, which stood near the tree of life

in the midst of the garden, was to be a test of the obedience, faith, and love

of our first parents. While permitted to eat freely of every other tree, they

were forbidden to taste of this, on pain of death. They were also to be

exposed to the temptations of Satan; but if they endured the trial, they

would finally be placed beyond His power, to enjoy perpetual favor with

God."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

pages 48, 49.

How did God test and try Joseph in order to fit him for the

great responsibilities to which he was called? Gen. 37:28; 39:20;

41:41-45.

NOTE.—Of

Joseph's trials and afflictions we are told: "God was prepar-

ing him, in the school of affliction, for greater usefulness, and he did not

refuse the needful

discipline."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 218. He was

tested, tried, refined, his life purified, that he might render the greater

service for God. Every trial that we are called upon to endure, every

sacrifice that we are called upon to make, is but the preparatory school for

a wider field of service.

[ 27 ]

What great decision was Moses called upon to make? How

did he respond? Heb. 11:23-26.

To the remnant church what tremendous task has been

assigned? Matt. 24:14.

Giving the Gospel Requires Our All

What call to consecration did Jesus make to His disciples in

His day? Luke 5:10, 11; 18:22, 23.

How did the early church put into practice this principle in

spreading the gospel? Acts 4:33-37.

Nora.—"This liberality on the part of the believers was the result of the

outpouring of the Spirit. The converts to the gospel were 'of one, heart and

of one soul.' One common interest controlled them,—the success of the

mission entrusted to them; and covetousness had no place in their lives.

Their love for their brethren and the cause they had espoused, was greater

than their love of money and possessions. Their works testified that they

accounted the souls of men of higher value than earthly wealth."—The

Acts

the Apostles,

pages 70, 71.

What is one of the outstanding dangers to the Christian? What

admonition does Christ give? Luke 12:15, 31-34.

NOTE.—"We ought now to be heeding the injunction of our Saviour: 'Sell

that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a

treasure in the heavens that faileth not.' It is now that our brethren should

be cutting down their possessions instead of increasing them. We are about

to move to a better country, even a heavenly. Then let us not be dwellers

upon the earth, but be getting things into as compact a compass as possible.

"The time is coming when we cannot sell at any price. The decree will

soon go forth prohibiting men to buy or sell of any man save him that hath

the mark of the

beast."—Testimonies, vol.

5, p. 152.

What is it the Father's pleasure to do for the faithful? Luke

12:32.

Bearing His Cross

What test of true discipleship does Christ place before His

servants? Luke 14:26, 27.

10.

What two illustrations of counting the cost are given? Luke

14:28-32.

NorE.—The Saviour cannot accept partial obedience. A love for earthly

relatives that is more than our love for Christ makes us unworthy of Him.

[ 28 J

Christ must come first. We must count the cost when choosing His service.

If we choose Him, all that we have must go with the choice. The promise

to those who forsake all to follow Christ is: "He shall receive an hundred-

fold now in this time, houses, _and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and

children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal

life." Mark 10:30. We need to count the cost, but it is worth all the toil

and sacrifice we shall be called upon to make to be able to follow our Lord.

11.

What conclusion does the Saviour draw? Luke 14:33.

Much Will Be Required

12.

What basic principle does God expect us to follow in giving

for the extension of His cause? Luke 12:48; Matt. 10:8, last clause.

NoTE.—"As our blessings and privileges are increased,—above all, as we

have before us the unparalleled sacrifice of the glorious Son of God,—should

not our gratitude find expression in more abundant gifts to extend to others

the message of salvation? The work of the gospel, as it widens, requires

greater provision to sustain it than was called for anciently; and this makes

the law of tithe and offerings of even more urgent necessity now than under

the Hebrew

economy."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

pages 528, 529.

13.

What is the divine standard for individual giving? 1 Cor.

16:2.

14.

To prevent our forgetting the world's need of Christ, what

are we urged to do? John 4:35; Luke 10:2.

15.

What vision of need did Paul see and what was his response?

Acts 16:9, 10.

Nora.—Paul's experience is an example for us. "From all countries the

Macedonian cry is sounding: 'Come over, . . . and help us.' God has

opened fields before us, and if human agencies would but co-operate with

divine agencies, many, many souls would be won to the truth. But the

Lord's professing people have been sleeping over their allotted work, and in

many places it remains comparatively

untouched."—Testimonies,

vol. 9, p. 46.

"Our church members should feel a deep interest in home and foreign

missions. Great blessings will come to them as they make self-sacrificing

efforts to plant the standard of truth in new territory."—Ibid., page 49.

"If there was ever a time when sacrifices should be made, it is now. Those

who have money should understand that now is the time to use it for God."

—Ibid.,

vol. 6. p. 450.

Thirteenth Sabbath Offering, June 24, 1950

FRENCH WEST

AND EQUATORIAL AFRICA

Lesson 11, for June 10, 1950

The Blessings of Faithful Stewardship

MEMORY VERSE: "For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according

to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not." 2 Cor. 8:12.

STUDY HELPS: S. A. Wellman, "Your Stewardship and Mine," chapter 11;

"Counsels on Stewardship," pages 15, 16.

INTRODUCTORY NOTE: "However short our service or humble our work,

if in simple faith we follow Christ, we shall not be disappointed of the reward. That

which even the greatest and wisest cannot earn, the weakest and most humble may

receive. Heaven's golden gate opens not to the self-exalted. It is not lifted up to the

proud in spirit. But the everlasting portals will open wide to the trembling touch

of a little child. Blessed will be the recompense of grace to those who have wrought

for God in the simplicity of faith and love."—"Christ's Object Lessons," page 404.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT

General survey of the lesson.



6. "Your Stewardship and Mine," sec-

Questions 1-4.



and half of chapter 11; "Counsels

Questions 5-9.



on Stewardship," pages 15, 16.

Questions 10-15.



7. Review.

"Your Stewardship and Mine," first

half of chapter 11.

Controlling Principles of Stewardship

What spirit was to actuate those who gave the materials for

building the sanctuary? Ex. 36:5-7; 1 Chron. 29:9.

On what basis is our service and sacrifice acceptable to God?

What only commends our service to Him? 2 Cor. 8:1, 2, 12.

NOTE.—"It

is not the length of time we labor, but our willingness and

fidelity in the work, that makes it acceptable to God. In all our service

a full surrender of self is demanded. The smallest duty done in sincerity

and self-forgetfulness, is more pleasing to God than the greatest work when

marred with self-seeking. He looks to see how much of the spirit of Christ

we cherish, and how much of the likeness of Christ our work reveals. He

regards more the love and faithfulness with which we work than the amount

do."—Christ's Object Lessons,

page 402.

How did Jesus recognize this principle in commending the

poor widow? Mark 12:41, 44.

Nora.—"The Saviour called His disciples to Him, and bade them mark

the widow's poverty. Then His words of commendation fell upon her ear:

`Of a truth I say unto you, that this poor widow bath cast in more than

they all.' Tears of joy filled her eyes as she felt that her act was understood

and appreciated. . . . Jesus understood her motive. She believed the service

of the temple to be of God's appointment, and she was anxious to do her

utmost to sustain

it."—The Desire of Ages,

page 615.

C 80 I

In sowing and reaping, what principle controls the results?

How should we give? Whom does God love? 2 Cor. 9:6, 7.

Preparing for God's

Approval

What instruction was Timothy admonished to give to those

who were blessed with this world's goods? 1 Tim. 6:17, 18.

By following this counsel, for what would they be preparing?

1 Tim.

6:19.

NOTE.—"God

desires us to choose the heavenly in place of the earthly.

He opens before us the possibilities of a heavenly investment. He would

give encouragement to our loftiest aims, security to our choicest treasure.

He declares,'I will make a man more precious than fine gold; even a man

than the golden wedge of Ophir.' When the riches that moth devours and

rust corrupts shall be swept away, Christ's followers can rejoice in their

heavenly treasure, the riches that are imperishable. . . . Then let your

property go beforehand to heaven. Lay up your treasure beside the throne

of God. Make sure your title to the unsearchable riches of

Christ."—Christ's

Object Lessons,

pages 374, 375.

For what did Paul commend the Philippians? Of what was

he assured concerning them? Phil. 4:15-19.

The Promise of Reward

By what parable did Jesus illustrate His dealings with His

workers? Matt. 20:1.

What reward was promised the first laborers hired? Matt.

20:2.

10.

What promise did the householder make to those who were

hired at the third, sixth, and ninth hours? Matt. 20:3-5.

11.

Whom did he find standing idle•in the market place at the

eleventh hour? What arrangement did he make with them? Matt.

20:6, 7.

12.

When the time came to pay the laborers, what procedure

was followed? How much did each receive? What complaint was

made? Matt. 20:8-12.

13.

What was the householder's reply? Matt. 20:13-16.

[ 81 ]

NOTE.—"The

first laborers of the parable represent those who, because

of their services, claim preference above others. They take up their work

in a self-gratulatory spirit, and do not bring into it self-denial and sacrifice.

They may have professed to serve God all their lives; they may have been

foremost in enduring hardship, privation, and trial, and they therefore think

themselves entitled to a large reward. They think more of the reward than

of the privilege of being servants of Christ. In their view their labors and

sacrifices entitle them to receive honor above others, and because this claim

is not recognized, they are off

ended."—Christ's Object Lessons,

pages 399, 400.

When the King Claims His Own

14.

What reward will be bestowed on those who have loyally

and willingly consecrated their all to Christ's service? Rom. 2:6, 7;

Rev. 22:12.

NOTE.—"There

are many who have given themselves to Christ, yet who

see no opportunity of doing a large work or making great sacrifices in His

service. These may find comfort in the thought that it is not necessarily the

martyr's self-surrender which is most acceptable to God; it may not be the

missionary who has daily faced danger and death, that stands highest in

heaven's records. The Christian who is such in his private life, in the daily

surrender of self, in sincerity of purpose and purity of thought, in meekness

under provocation, in faith and piety, in fidelity in that which is least, the

one who in the home life represents the character of Christ,—such a one

may in the sight of God be more precious than even the world-renowned

missionary or

martyr."—Christ's Object Lessons,

page 403.

15.

To what wonderful partnership did Paul refer in his

appeal to the Corinthian church? 1 Cor. 3:9; 2 Cor. 6:1, first clause.

NoTE.—God's gift of love and life eternal through redemption; the

gratitude that we must ever owe Him for His blessings bestowed throughout

our mortal existence, should make us grateful, willing partners with Him

in labor and travail for lost humanity. This is the priceless privilege of those

who are "workers together with Him."

Lesson

12, for June 17, 1950

Divinely Endowed for Stewardship

MEMORY VERSE: "Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowl-

edge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the

fullness of Christ." Eph. 4:13.

STUDY HELP: S. A. Wellman, "Your Stewardship and Mine,"chapter 12.

INTRODUCTORY NOTE: "All who consecrate soul, body, and spirit to God

will be constantly receiving a new endowment of physical and mental power. The inex-

haustible supplies of heaven are at their command. Christ gives them the breath of

His own spirit, the life of His own life. The Holy Spirit puts forth its highest energies

[ 32 ]

to work in heart and mind. The grace of God enlarges and multiplies their faculties,

and every perfection of the divine nature comes to their assistance in the work of

saving souls. Through co-operation with Christ they are complete in Him, and in

their human weakness they are enabled to do the deeds of Omnipotence."—"The Desire

of Ages," page 827.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT

General survey of the lesson.

Questions 1-5.

Questions 6-9.

Questions 10-14.

"Your Stewardship and Mine," first

half of chapter 12.

"Your Stewardship and Mine," sec-

ond half of chapter 12. •

Review.

God Watches Human Strivings

What struggle is constantly waged in the hearts and lives of

men? Gal. 5:17.

NorE.—This conflict in the lives of men is pictured in the following quota-

tion: "It is through false theories and traditions that Satan gains his power

over the mind. By directing men to false standards, he misshapes the

character. Through the Scriptures the Holy Spirit speaks to the mind, and

impresses truth upon the heart. Thus He exposes error, and expels it from

the soul. It is by the Spirit of truth, working through the word of God,

that Christ subdues His chosen people to Himself."—The

Desire Of Ages,

page 671.



•

What is God's attitude toward the sinner? Eph. 2:4, 5; Rom.

5:8.

NOTE.—God has always made manifest HiS desire for man's salvation.

His love for man emptied heaven in our behalf, sending His only-begotten

Son to live, to labor, and to die for erring man. He centered the eyes of the

universe on the conflict that was raging between good and evil on this earth.

All His creation awaited the outcome of God's plan for man's redemption

through the sacrifice of His beloved Son. Calvary is the evidence of a love

unsurpassed.

What is our part as God seeks a dwelling place in our hearts?

Rev. 3:20.

NOTE.—The

Saviour "is not repulsed by scorn or turned aside by threat-

ening, but continually seeks the lost ones, saying, 'How shall I give thee up?'

Although His love is driven back by the stubborn heart, He returns to plead

with greater force, 'Behold, I stand at the door, and

knock.' "—Christ's

Object Lessons,

page 235.

His Presence and Power May Be Ours

By what agency does God dwell in the hearts of men? John

14:16-20.

[ 33 ]

What change of heart is wrought by the entrance of the Holy

Spirit? Ezek. 36:26, 27.

NoTE.—"The Holy Spirit was the highest of all gifts that He could

solicit from His Father for the exaltation of His people. The Spirit was to

be given as a regenerating agent, and without this the sacrifice of Christ

would have been of no avail. The power of evil had been strengthening for

centuries, and the submission of men to this satanic captivity was amazing.

Sin could be resisted and overcome only through the mighty agency of the

Third Person of the Godhead, who would come with no modified energy,

but in the fullness of divine power. It is the Spirit that makes effectual

what has been wrought out by the world's Redeemer. It is by the Spirit that

the heart is made pure. Through the Spirit the believer becomes a partaker

of the divine nature. Christ has given His Spirit as a divine power to over-

come all hereditary and cultivated tendencies to evil, and to impress His

own character upon His church."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 671.

It Is a Mystery

How did Jesus explain to Nicodemus the mystery of the

Spirit's operation in human hearts? John 3:1-8.

How fully will the Holy Spirit take possession of our lives

if we yield to Him? What will He do for us? Eph. 3:16-19.

NOTE.—The Holy Spirit, admitted to the human heart, brings cleansing

from sin. Spiritual power before unknown will be made available to the one

in whom Christ has come to dwell.

To what experience are the saints ultimately to attain? Eph.

4:12, 13.

NoTE.—The gifts of the Spirit are given for the purpose of developing

in the church the full stature of Jesus Christ. The church, through the

operation of the Spirit, will measure up to His standard in character, in

service and in sacrifice. The kingdom of God will thus be established, and

His people be made ready for the return of their Lord.

What are we counseled against doing? Eph. 4:30.

NOTE.—Every sin, every careless act, indifference to duty, or shirking of

responsibility, grieves the Holy Spirit, and, temporarily at least, banishes Him

from our hearts.

Empowered to Finish the Task

10.

What promise of power did Jesus give to His church in His

parting message? Acts 1:8.

[

34]

NOTE.—"God has committed to us a special work, a work that no other

people can do. He has promised us the aid of His Holy Spirit. The heavenly

current is flowing earthward for the accomplishment of the very work

appointed us. Let not this heavenly current be turned aside by our devia-

tions from the straightforward path marked out by

Christ."—Testimonies,

vol. 6, p. 244.

11.

What resulted from the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon

the apostolic church? Acts 4:8-10, 31, 32; 6:3, 5, 8; 8:1.

NOTE.—"What was the result of the outpouring of the Spirit on the Day

of Pentecost? The glad tidings of a risen Saviour were carried to the utter-

most parts of the inhabited world. As the disciples proclaimed the message

of redeeming grace, hearts yielded to the power of this message. The church

beheld converts flocking to her from all directions. Backsliders were recon-

verted. Sinners united with believers in seeking the pearl of great price. Some

who had been the bitterest opponents of the gospel became its champions.

. . . Every Christian saw in his brother a revelation of divine love and

benevolence. One interest prevailed; one subject of emulation swallowed

up all others. The ambition of the believers was to reveal the likeness of

Christ's character, and to labor for the enlargement of His kingdom."—The

Acts of the Apostles,

page 48.

12.

Of what was the Pentecostal experience a fulfillment? Joel

2:28, 29; Acts 2:16, 17.

13.

What may we expect before the great final ingathering of

earth's harvest? Joel 2:23, last clause.

NOTE.—"Near the close of earth's harvest, a special bestowal of spiritual

grace is promised to prepare the church for the coming of the•Son of man.

This outpouring of the Spirit is likened to the falling of the latter rain; and

it is for this added power that Christians are to send their petitions to the

Lord of the harvest 'in the time of the latter rain.' . . .

"Every worker who follows the example of Christ will be prepared to

receive and use the power that God has promised to His church for the

ripening of earth's harvest. Morning by morning, as the heralds of the gospel

kneel before the Lord and renew their vows of consecration to Him, He will

grant them the presence of His spirit, with its reviving, sanctifying power.

As they go forth to the day's duties, they have the assurance that the unseen

agency of the Holy Spirit enables them to be 'laborers together with God.'"

—The Acts of the Apostles,

pages 55, 56.

14.

The giving of what urgent invitation will be the keynote of

every believer's life? Rev. 22:17, 20.

NoTE.—"Everyone who hears is to repeat the invitation. Whatever one's

calling in life, his first interest should be to win souls for Christ. He may not

be able to speak to congregations, but he can work for individuals. . . .

"The disciples were to begin their work where they were. The hardest and

most unpromising field was not to be passed by. So every one of Christ's.

185 3

workers is to begin where he is., In our own families may be' souls hungry

for sympathy, starving for the bread of life. There may be children to be

trained for Christ. There are heathen at our very doors. Let us do faithfully

the work that is nearest. Then let our efforts be extended as far as God's

hand may lead the

way."—The Desire of Ages,

page 822.

"The command, 'Go ye into all the world,' is not to be lost sight of. We

are called upon to lift our eyes to the 'regions beyond.' Christ tears away

the wall of partition, the dividing prejudice of nationality, and teaches a

love for all the human family. He lifts men from the narrow circle which

their selfishness prescribes; He abolishes all territorial lines and artificial

'distinctions of society. He makes no difference between neighbors and

strangers, friends and enemies. He teaches us to look upon every needy soul

as our brother, and the world as our field."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 823.

Lesson 13, for June 24, 1950

The Triumphs of Faithful Stewardship

MEMORY VERSE: "Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet

appear what we shall be: but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like

Him; for we shall see Him as He is."

John 3:2.

STUDY HELPS: S. A. Wellman, "Your Stewardship and Mine," chapter 13;

"Counsels on Stewardship," pages 339-350.

INTRODUCTORY NOTE: "Fellow pilgrim, we are still amid the shadows and

turmoil of earthly activities; but soon our Saviour is to appear to bring deliverance

and rest. Let us by faith behold the

blessed

hereafter, as pictured by the hand of God.

He who died for the sins of the world, is opening wide the gates of Paradise to all who

believe on Him. Soon the battle will have been fought, the victory won. Soon we

shall see Him in whom our hopes of eternal life are centered. And in His presence

the trials and sufferings of this life will seem as nothingness. The former things 'shall

not be remembered, nor come into mind.' Cast not away therefore your confidence,

which hath great recompense of reward. For ye have need of patience, that, after ye

have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. For yet a little while, and

He that shall come, will come, and will not tarry.' 'Israel shall be saved . . . with

an everlasting salvation: ye shall not be ashamed nor confounded world without end.' "

—"Prophets and Kings," pages 731, 732.

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT

General survey of the lesson.

Questions 1-4.

Questions 5-9.

Questions 10-14.

"Your Stewardship and Mine," first

half of chapter 13.

"Your Stewardship and Mine," sec-

ond half of chapter 13; "Counsels

on Stewardship," pages 339-350.

Review.

The Hope Set Before Us

What comforting message did Christ leave His troubled

disciples? John 14:1-3.

How did the psalmist refer to this event? Ps. 50:3-5.

[

36 ]

NoTE.—Everyone of the "called" in that day will be from among those

who gave their all in Christ's service. In service, time, money, comforts,

home, whatever or wherever their life for Christ called them, they will have

known and 'manifested the true spirit of sacrifice. Each will have entered

into the life and spirit of the blessed Master.

Pilgrims and Strangers Here

What did God's faithful children in past ages confess concern-

ing their relationship to this present world? Heb. 11:13.

What declaration did they make? What desire did they

express? What has God prepared for them? Heb. 11:14, 16.

How is the Christian's attitude toward the world, and his

anticipation of the future, referred to? Titus 2:12, 13.

For what did Peter look? What did John see? 2 Peter 3:13;

Rev. 21:1, 2.

NOTE.—"In the earth made new, the redeemed will engage in the occupa-

tions and pleasures that brought happiness to Adam and Eve in the begin-

ning. The Eden life will be lived, the life in garden and field. . . . There

every power will be developed, every capability increased. The grandest

enterprises will be carried forward, the loftiest aspirations will be reached,

the highest ambitions realized. And still there will appear new heights to

surmount, new wonders to admire, new truths to comprehend, fresh objects

of study to call forth the powers of body and mind and

soul."—Prophets

and Kings,

pages 730, 731.

What inspired and inspiring picture of the saints' inheritance

is drawn by the prophet Isaiah? Isa. 65:17, 21-25; 11:6-9.

The Promises Are to Overcomers

Who will be permitted to, partake of the joys of this better

world? Rev. 22:14; 21:7, 27.

What are indicated to be the things over which complete

victory must be gained by the overcomer? 1 John 2:15, 16.

10.

How is overcoming made possible? 1 John 5:4, 5; 1 Cor.

15:57; Rom. 8:37; Rev. 12:11.

NoTE.—Victory over the world, the flesh, and the devil can be gained

only through faith in Christ as our personal Saviour. We cannot accomplish

this of ourselves. He who overcomes, surrenders all, and, like his Master; is

wholly given to doing the will of Him that sent him. There will be no

reservations in such surrender, service, or sacrifice.

, 11. What precious promises are made to those who overcome

and are redeemed?

ANSWER:

(a)

Eat of the tree of life. Rev. 2:7.

(b)

Be saved from the second death. Rev. 2:11.

(c)

Eat of the hidden manna. Rev. 2:17.

(d)

Have power over the nations. Rev. 2:26.

(e)

White raiment (Christ's righteousness), and name confessed before

the heavenly hosts. Rev. 3:5.

(f)

A pillar in God's temple. Rev. 3:12.

(g)

A place on Christ's throne. Rev. 3:21.

Non.—"Whatever Christ asks us to renounce, He offers in its stead

something better. Often the youth cherish objects, pursuits, and pleasures

that may not appear to be evil, but that fall short of the highest good. They

divert the life from its noblest aim. Arbitrary measures or direct denuncia-

tion may not avail in leading these youth to relinquish that which they hold

dear. Let them be directed to something better than display, ambition, or

self-indulgence. Bring them in contact with truer beauty, with loftier princi-

ples, and with nobler lives. Lead them to behold the One 'altogether lovely.'

When once the gaze is fixed upon Him, the life finds its center. The enthusi-

asm, the generous devotion, al

: passionate ardor of the youth find here

their true object. Duty becomes a delight, and sacrifice a pleasure. To honor

Christ, to become like Him, to work for Him, is the life's highest ambition

and its greatest

joy."—Education,

pages 296, 297.

12.

What blessed invitation may all who have been faithful

stewards soon expect to hear? Matt. 25:34.

13.

What assurance is given to all who have forsaken the world

to follow Jesus? Mark 10:28-30.

14.

Into whose likeness will the overcomer be transformed in

the day of ingathering? 1 John 3:2.

NoTE.—"We shall be like Him." "We shall see Him as He is." Our

finite vision sees the presence, the purity of character, the majesty and

power, the love and purity of the Saviour but dimly. We cannot comprehend

Him with these limited powers that we now possess. "Now we see through'

a glass, darkly." Then we shall see Him as He is—our eyes will behold, our

minds will comprehend the perfection of His character, the glory of His

presence, the depths of His love, the breadth of His understanding, and the

wisdom of the way in which He has led our weary feet. All else will be

forgotten when we know Him as He is, and in our overwhelming joy we will

cast our crowns at His feet in love and adoration. The covenant people, the

overcomers, shall dwell with Him throughout eternity, ever learning more

of God's great love and delving more deeply into the secrets of the universe

which His power and wisdom has created and which He controls. May it

be our happy lot through victory to be there!

[

]

SABBATH SCHOOL LESSONS FOR THIRD QUARTER

For those who have not received a

Lesson Quarterly

for the new quarter,

we give the following outline to help in the daily study of the first lesson:

The general topic of the lessons is "The Victorious Life." Lesson 1, for

July 1, is entitled "The Word of God the Basis of Victory." The memory

verse is 2 Tim. 3:16, 17. The lesson helps for this first lesson ,are:

_The Desire

of Ages,

pages 114-123, 257, 258;

Christ's Object Lessons,

pages 107-114

(new edition, pages 103-113). The texts covered are:

Ques. 1: Matt. 4:4.

Ques. 2: John 5:39.

Ques. 3: 2 Tim. 3:16, 17.

Ques. 4: 2 Peter 1:21.

Ques. 5: Heb. 1:1.

Ques. 6: Isa. 6:7-9; 8:1:

Ques. 7: Ezek. 1:3 ; 3:4, 10, 11;'

33:7.

•

Ques. 8: Jer. 26:2.

Ques. 9: Isa. 55:8, 9.

Ques. 10: John 6:63, 68.

Ques. 11: Phil. 2:16.

Ques. 12: Eph. 6:17.

Ques. 13: Jer. 15:16.

Ques. 14: Job 23:12.

Ques. 15: Ps. 119:103, 130.

THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING

June 24, 1950—French West and Equatorial Africa

Our world Sabbath school membership has a tremendous challenge this

quarter in the call for medical help for the many thousands who are afflicted

with malaria, the dreaded leprosy, sleeping sickness, tropical ulcers, and

many other diseases in French West and Equatorial Africa. The map on

page 40 will show you the exact location of this territory.

The overflow of the Thirteenth Sabbath Offering this quarter is dedicated

to the establishing of at least one, regular native hospital in this vast territory.

We have a number of modest dispensaries in French Equatorial Africa which

have performed miracles in their work with sick natives, but such facilities

are insufficient to meet the pressing needs. Something greater must be done

to alleviate the physical suffering of these people. A native convert in the

South Cameroons who was a savage a few years ago, and who was ill, said

not long ago, "We have found a wonderful truth. We are saved for eternity,

but when shall we have our hospital so that our bodies can be cared for and

our diseases healed?"

What a challenge ! Shall not all give of their means to a greater extent

than ever before to help meet this urgent call,

for adequate medical facilities

in French West and Equatorial Africa?

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